We’re in the beginning stages of the Detroit Pistons' offseason preparations, and there are plenty of plots and subplots to follow during July’s free agent push. Here's what you need to know about their free agency plans:
Pistons make Draymond Green top target
Green has emerged as a star in just his third season in the league, but his short and cheap contract from being a second-round pick will come off the books this offseason. Golden State is paying him just $915K this year, and Green is likely to receive a max contract on the open market. As much as the Warriors would like to keep him, they might not be able to afford it with Klay Thompson’s max extension kicking in next season.
Detroit will throw everything they have at Green, who hasn’t been shy about his love for his hometown. His versatility is perfect for Van Gundy’s system and would make him the perfect complement to dominant center Andre Drummond.
DeMarre Carroll a backup option?
As much as the idea of playing in his hometown may appeal to Green, he's unlikely to leave Golden State. The Pistons are also pursuing DeMarre Carroll as somewhat of an insurance policy, hoping to steal the versatile defender away from the Atlanta Hawks. Detroit wants to use Carroll as a combo forward, playing the three in the starting lineup and the four when they switch to small ball, but will have to outbid Atlanta for his services.
Greg Monroe not re-signing with Pistons, expected to join Knicks
The Knicks were connected to the Pistons center in sign-and-trade talks last year and trade rumors once again this year, and he's reportedly ready to sign a contract with the Knicks as soon as free agency starts on Wednesday. Monroe hasn't wanted to commit to Detroit for the past two seasons, citing that he "doesn't want to be where he's not wanted."
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